When People Are Big and God is Small

Currently reading a new book that deals with the fear of man called "When People Are Big and God Is Small" by Edward Welch. So far so good, so if you struggle with fear of man, i'd definitely recommend it. I'll probably share some more of its insights in my next couple of posts.

"Regarding other people, our problem is that we need them (for ourselves) more than we love them (for the glory of God). The task God sets for us is to need them less and love them more. Instead of looking for ways to manipulate others, we will ask God what our duty is toward them.

Paul was not a people-pleaser. He was a people-lover and because of that he did not change his message according to what others might think. Only people-lovers are able to confront. Only people lovers are not controlled by other people. Paul even indicated to the Galatians that if he were still trying to please men, he would not be a servant of God. (Gal 1:10) That is how seriously he took the fear of man.

Not that this came naturally. Paul had the same fleshly instincts we do, and he knew it. As a result, he beseeched the churches to pray for him."

Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." Ephesians 6:19-20